Who is Abidur Chowdhury? Designer Who Introduced iPhone Air on Stage Leaves Apple for AI

Apple is once again facing questions about its talent retention after celebrated industrial designer Abidur Chowdhury, who introduced the iPhone Air on stage this September, left the company to join an undisclosed artificial intelligence startup. Bloomberg reported that his departure has added to Apple's already visible talent drain within both AI and product design circles.

A Rising Star in Apple's Hardware Design Team

Chowdhury joined Apple in 2019 as an Industrial Designer within the core hardware design unit. Over six years, he contributed to multiple flagship products, but he gained widespread public attention this year when he showcased the iPhone Air, a sleek titanium framed device positioned as Apple's next generation ultra thin iPhone, priced at ₹1,19,900 for the 256 GB model.

While unveiling the device, he said Apple wanted to "make an iPhone that feels like a piece of the future," capturing the company's ambition to merge futuristic aesthetics with long lasting strength.

Bloomberg noted that his exit "made waves" inside Apple due to his growing responsibilities in shaping post Jony Ive era design language.

Growing List of Key Departures

Chowdhury is the latest in a line of high profile designers who have moved away from Apple over recent years. Several former team members are now working with Jony Ive's design firm that is currently owned by OpenAI.

Although Apple has not commented publicly on his exit, Bloomberg reported that Chowdhury has already transitioned to an AI focused venture. Analysts believe this type of career shift is becoming more common among experienced Apple employees who see greater opportunities in the rapidly growing artificial intelligence sector.

Career and Early Achievements

Born and raised in London, Chowdhury had already earned recognition within the global design community before arriving at Apple. He studied Product Design and Technology at Loughborough University where he secured several major awards including the Red Dot Design Award (2016), James Dyson Foundation Bursary, 3D Hubs Student Grant and the Kenwood Appliances Award.

His early career involved working at UK based design consultancies Cambridge Consultants, Curventa and Layer. He also ran his own design studio where he collaborated with agencies, startups and technology companies.

A Timely Move During Apple's AI Transition

Chowdhury's LinkedIn profile still reflects Apple as his current employer and no information has surfaced publicly about the startup he joined. However, his exit arrives at a crucial period for Apple as the company prepares to adapt its hardware for deeper AI integration. Losing a rising designer who helped shape one of its most futuristic products signals a challenging moment for Apple's long term creative direction.